"Red" (Milton R.) Akin

Published
6:00 pm CST, Tuesday, February 9, 2010

Red Akin, aged 82, of Conroe, Texas, passed away on February 4, 2010 after a brief illness. He was born August 29, 1927 to Raymond and Sallie Akin and grew up on his grandparents' farm in Rock Prairie and in Montgomery, where he graduated high school in 1944. He served in the United States Navy from 1945 until 1948, and again for two years during the Korean War. Until his death, he liked recalling his Navy days. In 1954, Red married Hazel Evelyn Coe, who was from their first meeting the love of his life. He had a satisfying career as a carpenter and contractor, building many fine homes in the Conroe area and always taking a craftsman's pride in his work. He and Hazel retired to their ranch in Walker County and spent several years traveling before she developed Alzheimer's and they returned to the Lake Conroe area. Red cared for her tirelessly until her death in 2000 and continued to help many relatives and friends during times of need in the years since. He treasured the camaraderie of his many lunch bunches, breakfast buddies, and card-playing circles in Conroe and Montgomery. He is survived by his son Marty Akin and wife Tammy Akin of Spring; his daughter Marla Akin and husband John McAlpin of Austin; his grandson Phillip Akin and wife Jessica Akin, also of Spring; his granddaughter Lauren Gillett and husband CPT Troy Gillett of Fountain, Colorado; two great-grandchildren, Sierra Akin and Ryan Gillett; his very special niece Charlene Roberts of Magnolia; and his friend Ruby Butler of Montgomery, as well as other extended family and a host of loving and caring friends. All who knew him know that he was not one for formal ceremonies. A memorial gathering for friends and family to enjoy coffee and share stories will be held on Saturday, February 13, 2010 from 10:00 am until 1:00 p.m. at Conroe Funeral Directors, 1504 N. Thompson Street. According to his wishes, his ashes will join those of his wife of 46 years on Bear Tooth Pass in Wyoming.